Agriculture experts in Israel report the recent cold wave has resulted in the loss of many crops. As a result, consumers can expect shortages and price hikes. Tzvi Alon, who represents the nation’s produce farmers explains that price hikes of 6-8 NIS per kilogram are to be expected.

He adds the price of zucchini, tomatoes, eggplants and cucumbers will increase in the next days, the daily HaMevaser reports. This higher price may continue for a number of weeks.

On the brighter side, summer fruits are benefiting from the cold weather and it is likely the result will be less expensive fruits of a higher quality. He predicts prices 30% lower than last year.

Experts estimate damage to farmers from inclement weather amounts to about 160 millions NIS annually.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)